Obama-mania has hit Wimbledon, as the winner of last year’s American election prepares to become the next president.

Barack Obama’s inaugaration ceremony will be screened live from Washington, local bookshops are reporting huge interest in him - and a local donut shop is even running a promotion in his honour.

The moment when Mr Obama takes over the presidency is set to be shown at the offices of the Wimbledon Labour Party in William Morris House on January 20.

The party has hired a giant plasma screen for the occasion, and will host a celebration with food and drink.

Peter Walker, chair of William Morris House, said: “I was lucky enough together with others from the borough to go and campaign for Barack Obama in the run-up to the election. During that time we witnessed the optimism that his campaign generated and heard him speak live to over 13,000 people.

“We think Mr Obama offers hope for the world at a particularly difficult time. We hope that people will join us to welcome this dawn of a new era.”

His autobiographies were a massive hit in local bookshops over Christmas and the New Year. Paul Irwing, a manager at Books Etc on the Broadway, said: “Over Christmas he was our biggest seller. People here really want to know more about him.”

And until January 16, coffee lovers can get a free Americano coffee if they repeat his slogan of 'yes we can' at donut shop Krispy Kreme.

The former Illionois senator beat John McCain in the American elections in November, but does not take over the role of president until later this month.

To get tickets for the inaugaration event call Emma Nye on 0759 338 2090.